FAQ's

Who is eligible to apply for The Soraya Foundation Scholarship?

• Currently, the scholarship is only available to graduating or recently graduated Division I student-athletes. Please see our Eligibility tab for full details and requirements.

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Do I need to be enrolled in graduate or an advanced study program when I apply?

• Not necessarily. You can apply to the scholarship without yet being accepted / enrolled into a post-graduate program. But by April 20, 2026, you have to show proof of enrollment to The Soraya Foundation via email at admin@thesorayafoundation.org with the subject line "PROOF OF ENROLLMENT: [FULL NAME]". 

 

Can international students apply?

• Yes! The scholarship is available to all students, regardless of citizenship or visa status, including international, domestic, documented, undocumented, and DACA students.

 

What materials do I need to submit?

• Applicants are required to submit the following: most recent earned income documentation, transcript, personal statement, two letters of recommendation, and a resume. Finalists may participate in a final interview. 

 

How much is the scholarship award?

• Exact amounts may vary, and more information will be available soon.

 

Does the scholarship consider financial need?

• Financial need is one of the factors we consider in awarding the scholarship. While it’s not the only criterion, we aim to ensure the scholarship goes to a student for whom it will make a meaningful impact.

 

Will I be assigned a mentor as part of the scholarship?

• Yes! Every scholarship recipient is paired with a mentor whose background and goals closely align with yours. You’ll be matched with someone who has navigated the same higher-education path you’re about to take, and your mentor will remain accessible to guide and support you throughout your professional school journey.

 

Which graduate or advanced study programs is this scholarship eligible for?

• The scholarship is available for a variety of graduate and advanced study programs, including, but not limited to, medical school, law school, PhD programs, and master’s programs. We are also open to other unique graduate programs on a case-by-case basis.

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How do I submit the scholarship application?

• Please go to the Apply Here tab and follow link to submit the application.

 

When is the application deadline?

• The deadline to apply is April 1. Please see the Apply Here tab on our website for important dates.

 

Can I reapply for the scholarship next year?

• Not at this time, this is a one-time, non-renewable award.

 

What is expected of scholarship recipients?

• We ask recipients to provide periodic updates so we can celebrate your successes and stay connected with your journey. These updates help us share your achievements with the broader Soraya Foundation community.

 

Will receiving this scholarship affect my financial aid package?

• We do not expect the scholarship to affect your financial aid, but we recommend that you consult your financial aid officer before we transfer the funds to your university or program.

 

How soon will I be notified after applying?

• Applications close on April 1, and we expect to notify recipients of their award in early May.

 

How will I receive the scholarship if rewarded?

• The scholarship funds are paid directly to your university or program, ensuring they are applied securely and promptly to your educational costs.